MACON, Mo. — The Macon City Council moved forward with two major infrastructure projects for the Fower Memorial Airport during its Feb. 10 meeting, approving agreements to clear runway obstructions and perform critical pavement maintenance.
Both projects are expected to be 100% funded through federal non-primary entitlement (NPE) program funds, administered by the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) Aviation.
Runway Obstruction Removal
The council unanimously approved a consultant agreement with Alfred Benesch & Company for the design and bid phase of a project to demolish two houses on Vine Street. The properties, acquired during a 2013 runway extension, currently sit within the “Runway-20 Restricted Protection Zone” (RPZ).
The ordinance passed after two readings, with Councilman Thompson and Councilwoman Blaise leading the motions. Officials noted the demolition is necessary to clear the flight path and meet safety regulations.
Pavement Maintenance
In a separate vote, the council authorized a second agreement with Alfred Benesch & Company to oversee repairs to the airport’s taxiways and runways. The work includes:
Repairing damaged concrete panels.
Replacing deteriorated joint sealant.
Repainting pavement markings.
Councilman Olinger and Councilman Carr sponsored the motions for the maintenance project, which also relies on MoDOT grant funding.
Voting Record
Both ordinances passed with identical 6-0 roll call votes. Council members Olinger, Carr, Thompson, Blaise, Walk, and Bernhardt voted in favor. Council members Holman and Iwanowicz were absent.